Plan refused over traffic

TRAFFIC congestion and an inadequate water supply in Kenmare, Co Kewrry, are among the main reasons for the refusal of planning permission for a controversial development which had been earmarked for the town.

An Bord Pleanála yesterday confirmed it had turned down planning for the multi-million euro Peninsula development which included 300 residential units, a 3,400 sqm shopping complex and a 260-space car park. Almost 150 objections were lodged against the proposal which would have fronted onto Henry Street, in the heart of Kenmare.

The promoters were local business people Peter and Fiona O’Sullivan and Neidin Developments, a company owned by a number of developers. It would have been the biggest development in Kenmare, where property prices have been rocketing in recent years.

Bord Pleanála said the proposal would have given rise to extra traffic resulting in serious traffic congestion.

Also, the development would be premature pending the construction of an inner relief road linking the main Killarney and Kilgarvan roads.

The board further stated that it would also be premature pending an upgrading and improvement of the Kenmare water supply.

Kerry County Council, which had already refused planning for the development, recently confirmed that all new developments had been put on hold until a new €12 million water scheme was provided from the River Sheen.